Signing Chris Wood to add some firepower up front at St James’ Park, Eddie Howe also wanted another goalscorer in January to help his Newcastle United side climb out of the relegation zone.
The man they targeted was Hugo Ekitike, with the interest since confirmed directly by Amanda Staveley, and a deal was struck with Stade de Reims for a transfer worth €40m overall.
However, the 19-year-old wasn’t entirely convinced, which led to him turning down a move to the Magpies midway through the season to finish the current campaign with the Ligue 1 side.
That doesn’t mean Newcastle have given up on their target, mind, as But! Football Club make it clear the Premier League side are still monitoring the player’s progress.
The website reveal they were ‘once again present’ to watch Ekitike during Reims’ February 20th clash against Stade Brestois.
They couldn’t have known that he would get injured after 16 minutes, but it’s clear they are maintaining their interest in the 19-year-old, who is now expected to be sidelined until March 23rd at the earliest.
Whether that translates into a new offer being made in the summer remains to be seen, but if Newcastle continue their current form, they certainly will be a far more attractive destination than they were a month and a bit ago.
